Halitosis, commonly called bad breath, is an embarrassing dental problem that leaves you and people around you uncomfortable. It usually causes reduced self-esteem and obstructs social and professional lives.
Although some people consider it a simple problem, bad breath usually results from more severe causes. This makes consulting a dental professional to diagnose the cause of your bad breath and finding a suitable solution necessary.
Discussing bad breath is a delicate subject that may affect self-confidence if you take the wrong approach, and many people find it challenging to bring up the subject. However, it is essential to know when you have bad breath and visit your dentist about it.
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Bad breath has several causes, from lifestyle to food and underlying health conditions like gum inflammation (gingivitis) and gum disease. In some cases, bad breath results from issues affecting other body parts such as lung or throat infection, kidney or liver disease.
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Since bad breath could result from lifestyle habits, lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking, brushing properly, and eating fewer foods with a strong smell could get rid of your bad breath.
Treating an underlying condition that causes bad breath may also stop bad breath. However, you need to consult your dentist if you have concerns about your bad breath.
When you visit your dentist, they will carry out a routine exam to identify the cause of your bad breath, recommend the proper treatment, and advise you on changes to get rid of your bad breath.
Treatment for bad breath ranges from a hygienist appointment to clean and polish your teeth to antibiotics for gum disease.
Bacteria in the mouth is the most common cause of bad breath, so reducing the numberof bacteria in your mouth with good oral hygiene can keep your breath fresh.
A good oral routine that involves brushing all areas of your mouth, brushing for at least two minutes twice daily, using a tongue scraper and flossing can reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. Ensure you wait for at least 30 minutes after a meal before brushing, especially if you had acidic food or beverage because the acid weakens your enamel.
After your meals, chew sugar-free gum as this helps to remove food trapped between your teeth and stimulates saliva that washes away food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
Ensure you visit your dentist or hygienist at least every six months for a dental check-up and professional teeth cleaning, as this is an integral part of maintaining a fresh breath.
If you are concerned about your breath, visit Smile Clinic London today to have our dentist carry out a routine exam to determine the cause of your bad breath. You can also call us on 020 7139 8611 to schedule an appointment with our dentist.
